Hire Patient Representatives
Whether outpatient or inpatient, the goal should be for each patient is to have a positive experience in the healthcare institution. Patient representatives serve to ensure that all patients are efficiently informed and assisted at all times.
The work of patient representatives varies depending upon the healthcare institution. They may work full-time or part-time and can be employed in any healthcare setting, from clinics, diagnostic facilities, outpatient centers, or hospitals.
Before making a job announcement, hiring managers must first identify the needs of the hiring organization and their expectations of patient representatives. Details such as schedule, location, responsibilities, qualifications, and benefit information should be obtained before the recruitment process begins. A job description should contain all the essential information for candidates to gauge whether or not they can apply as a patient representative.
In some institutions, patient representatives are also called patient services representatives. To make your job announcement appear in more search engine results, be sure to include this term on your job description. Lastly, post your job announcement on relevant hiring sites, online healthcare communities and groups, and social media platforms. If possible, get referrals from current employees, as they may already know patient representatives in their network.
Responsibilities of a Patient Representative
A patient representative is typically the first person that a patient will see upon entering a healthcare facility. Patient representatives greet patients warmly and initiate a friendly and professional conversation. They obtain pertinent information from patients like addresses, contact information, insurance details, medical histories, and other information relevant to their care.
Patient representatives inform patients of the health resources available in the facility as well as hospital rules, policies, and procedures. Depending on their need, patient representatives also discuss approximate healthcare costs and help patients determine the best payment option. They assist patients in filling out forms on patient history, consent, and even payment forms if needed.
Patient representatives are in charge of updating patient information records and making sure that they are verified and accurate. While in the facility, patient representatives answer the inquiries and concerns of patients and lead them to the right resources for additional information. They may also distribute printed materials like pamphlets and brochures to share information with patients and other healthcare staff.
Before a patient is discharged or leaves the facility, patient representatives teach them how to operate any home health equipment prescribed by their doctor. As patient representatives will have daily face-to-face interactions with patients, they must follow standard health protocols to minimize health risks and the spread of infection.
Skills and Qualifications of a Patient Representative
A Patient Representative is required to have a high school diploma or GED, and potentially a bachelor’s degree as well. The ideal candidate must pay keen attention to detail and have excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Candidates should also show proficiency in using data entry using computer systems. Previous experience as a patient representative is an advantage.
